I wrote about worm farming recently in preparation for a presentation at the library. What I didn’t mention was that I had also restarted my own worm farm.
Over the years, I’ve repeatedly tried to start a new one, then as soon as the very hot temperature days come, the bins dry out, and most of the worms die. I would add any surviving worms and unprocessed scraps into the big compost bin or the various composting systems I have around the garden (yes, I really like to compost).
This time I’m determined to keep these guys alive, for my presentation, or at least until after it’s over. So far they’ve survived the 100° days of the last few days. What have I done differently? I check the bin almost every day to make sure the computer paper bedding remains damp as a rung-out sponge. I’m also keeping an extra amount of the damp bedding on top, something I never paid much attention to before. I also make sure the bin is completely in the shade all day long by covering it with a heavy curtain material. And I plead with them to stay alive (just kidding).
But I will keep re-reading and reviewing the link I found from Oregon State University. I have a feeling this year the worms will make it through the summer alive and well. And I will have lots of vermicompost for months, if not years to come.
https://extension.oregonstate.edu/catalog/em-9034-composting-worms